Around vs Zoom: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Around and Zoom comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Zoom wins this matchup. Microsoft Teams is our overall Video Conferencing pick. Microsoft Teams is our free Video Conferencing pick. Pick Around if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
Based on published vendor pricing and features and on public review data, here's who should pick what:
Around
Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work
Best for you if:
- • You want lightweight video meeting solution
Zoom
Connect, communicate, and collaborate with HD video meetings
Best for you if:
- • You want reliable video quality
| At a Glance | Around | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free Free plan | Free Free plan |
Category | Video Conferencing Communication | Video Conferencing Communication |
Rating | n/a | 3.4/5 G2 4.5 · Trustpilot 1.3 56,859 reviews |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Watch out for | n/a | Cloud recording storage fills fast: Pro and Business include only 10GB (about 10-15 hours of recordings). Enterprise gets unlimited recording storage, the only plan where this is not an issue. |
Choose Around or Zoom?
Choose Around if
- You want lightweight video meeting solution
- You want unique floating video bubbles design
Choose Zoom if
- You want reliable video quality
- You want easy to use
In-Depth Analysis
Around
Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work
Around offers a very generous Free tier, providing core video conferencing features without any cost.
Strengths
- Pro: Lightweight video meeting solution
- Pro: Unique floating video bubbles design
- Pro: Minimal screen real estate usage
- Pro: Good for remote collaboration
- Pro: Clean and distraction-free interface
Weaknesses
- Con: Acquired/discontinued service
- Con: Limited feature set compared to competitors
- Con: Smaller user base and ecosystem
- Con: May lack enterprise-grade features
- Con: Integration options are limited
Key features
Zoom
Connect, communicate, and collaborate with HD video meetings
The AI Companion (meeting summaries, smart recording) is included free on paid plans, a genuine competitive advantage over Google Meet and Teams, which charge extra for comparable AI features.
Watch out
Cloud recording storage fills fast: Pro and Business include only 10GB (about 10-15 hours of recordings). Enterprise gets unlimited recording storage, the only plan where this is not an issue.
Strengths
- Pro: Reliable video quality
- Pro: Easy to use
- Pro: Good for large meetings
- Pro: Breakout rooms
Weaknesses
- Con: Free plan has time limits
- Con: Security concerns historically
- Con: Can be resource intensive
Key features
Pricing: Around vs Zoom
| Plan | Around | Zoom |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 0 Free | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Around pricing and Zoom pricing.
Key Takeaways
Zoom
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Around
- Choose if you want video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work
The Bottom Line
Zoom wins this matchup. Microsoft Teams is our overall Video Conferencing pick. Microsoft Teams is our free Video Conferencing pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Around or Zoom better in 2026?
Zoom wins this matchup. Microsoft Teams is our overall Video Conferencing pick. Microsoft Teams is our free Video Conferencing pick. Pick Around for video conferencing workflows (main strength: lightweight video meeting solution). Pick Zoom for video conferencing workflows (main strength: reliable video quality).
What are Around and Zoom used for?
Around: Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work. Zoom: Connect, communicate, and collaborate with HD video meetings.
What does Around cost vs Zoom?
Around pricing is on their site. Zoom pricing is on their site.
What's the main difference between Around and Zoom?
Around's main strength: lightweight video meeting solution. Zoom's main strength: reliable video quality.